Classic Open Face Helmet - Against The Wind

by John Daniele

As the bikers always say, “Never travel without it!” Exactly what is this “it” they are referring to? “It” is the ever so popular protective headgear, the helmet. To motorcyclist, nothing is as dependable as a helmet. Helmet styles are available in a wide variety. Whether it be a full face, classic open face helmet, a half helmet, or even an open face retro DOT helmet, they all serve the same purpose. The primary goal of the helmet is protecting the motorcyclist’s head in case of an accident. Not only does the helmet protect the head, ears, eyes, and nose, but it’s also vital for proper ventilation and protection from the elements.

Is a helmet truly necessary? Accidents happen. One motorcyclist may be the safest on the road, but that doesn’t mean that John or Jane Doe in the other lane is just as safe. A motorcycle helmet can prevent, or at least reduce, injury during accidents. If motorcyclists are efficiently protected, especially in the head/face area, fatal accidents can be prevented. Impacts to the skull or face can ultimately become injuries to the brain, and that combination can equal a fatality. Even though a full-face helmet provides more coverage, a classic open face helmet can provide essential protection. A classic open face helmet in a crash, compared to nothing, could be the difference between life and death. An open face retro DOT helmet conforming to safety standards, yet retro-stylish enough to rewind to the good times, gives the best of both worlds to the reminiscent rider. Different helmet styles exist to suit different biker’s needs. One biker may be partial to a particular style, but whatever the preference, the presence of a helmet is what’s truly important.

The purpose of a classic open faced helmet is to protect as it covers the skull’s base and back. When compared to a full-face, the classic is more limited without the chin armor protection. Even an open face helmet that comes with a face shield or visor, is somewhat at a disadvantage. It offers limited or non-existent protection from the natural elements such as wind, dust, insects, and other stray foreign objects that might be bouncing or flying about. Some riders choose to implement additional safety options with their classic open face helmets including goggles, sunglasses, or nose and mouth guards.

Of course, there are many riders who prefer the classic open face helmet over other types since it gives complete protection without the compressing feeling of the full-face helmet and the inadequate feeling of a shorty. The open face helmet is airy enough and very comfortable yet can be fastened securely to give full protection to the biker. On the other hand, a shorty may shift and come undone in an accident. In fact, even an open face retro DOT helmet can provide a good protection not withstanding the retro colors and styles if it conforms to DOT safety standards.

In general, the motorcyclists will look forward to enjoy the fun of riding into the open wind on a sports motorcycle or a cruiser. Some riders will even say that if they cannot feel the wind on their face they will not feel like riding a motorcycle at all. Therefore, most of the riders would prefer a classic open face helmet as they can feel the joy of the wind on their faces without the restriction of a face shield or a chin guard. Riding motorcycle is fun. The rider should enjoy the breeze and the free-flowing experience, is it not?

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